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Error code reference

Kenmore Dryer Error Code PF

Electric dryer power cord is not connected correctly, or house power supply is incorrect, or house fuse is…

Kenmore codesKenmore dryer codes

Electric dryer power cord is not connected correctly, or house power supply is incorrect, or house fuse is blown, circuit breaker has tripped, or power outage has occurred.

First step from the service manual

Check the power supply or the connection of power cord to the terminal block.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What PF means on a Kenmore dryer

The PF error code on a Kenmore electric dryer stands for Power Failure. It indicates that the dryer detected an interruption or problem with its incoming electrical supply. Electric dryers in North America require a 240-volt circuit supplied by two 120-volt legs from the home's electrical panel. The dryer monitors both legs of this supply, and if either leg drops out or the connection is unstable, the PF code will appear. This is not a fault with the dryer's internal components, but rather a signal that the machine did not receive the correct power it needs to operate safely.

The most common triggers for PF include a tripped circuit breaker, a blown household fuse, or a power outage that occurred while the dryer was running. Because electric dryers require a double-pole 240-volt breaker, it is possible for one side of the breaker to trip while the other remains on. In this partial-power scenario, the dryer may appear to have some power, such as the drum light or display working, while the heating element and motor cannot function correctly. This partial trip situation is frequently misdiagnosed because the machine does not appear fully dead.

The connection of the power cord to the terminal block at the rear of the dryer is another key area to inspect. A loose, corroded, or improperly wired terminal block connection can cause intermittent voltage drops that trigger the PF code. The power cord itself should also be inspected for damage. Verifying that the wall outlet is delivering the correct 240-volt supply is an important step before opening up the dryer for further diagnostics.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of PF

  1. 01

    Tripped circuit breaker

    Wiring / connection

    Electric dryers run on a double-pole 240-volt breaker. One or both poles may have tripped, cutting power to the dryer. Check the breaker panel for a breaker that is in the middle or off position and reset it fully.

  2. 02

    Power outage or voltage interruption

    Wiring / connection

    A brief power outage or a sudden dip in household voltage while the dryer was running will trigger the PF code. The code is stored and displayed after power is restored as a record of the interruption.

  3. 03

    Loose or improperly connected power cord at the terminal block

    Wiring / connection

    If the power cord wires are not firmly secured to the terminal block at the rear of the dryer, voltage can drop intermittently and trigger PF. Visually inspect the terminal block connections for looseness, scorching, or corrosion.

  4. 04

    Blown household fuse

    Part replacement

    Homes with older fuse panels may have one or both fuses for the dryer circuit blown. A blown fuse on either leg of the 240-volt supply will prevent the dryer from receiving full power.

  5. 05

    Damaged or faulty power cord

    Part replacement

    A power cord with a broken wire, damaged insulation, or a faulty plug can cause an unreliable connection. Inspect the cord along its entire length and at the plug for any visible damage or burn marks.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about PF

What does PF mean on a Kenmore dryer?
PF stands for Power Failure on a Kenmore electric dryer. It means the dryer detected that its 240-volt electrical supply was interrupted or is not connected correctly. Common causes include a tripped circuit breaker, a power outage, a blown fuse, or a loose power cord connection at the terminal block on the back of the dryer. It is a supply-side alert, not an internal component failure.
How do I fix the PF error code on my Kenmore dryer?
Start by checking your home's circuit breaker panel and resetting the double-pole breaker for the dryer if it has tripped. Next, inspect the power cord connection at the terminal block on the rear of the dryer to make sure all wires are firmly secured. If your home has a fuse panel, check that both fuses for the dryer circuit are intact. If everything looks correct at the breaker and cord, use a multimeter at the wall outlet to confirm it is supplying a full 240 volts.
Will resetting the dryer clear the PF code?
Pressing Start or cycling the dryer's power can clear the PF display, but the code will return if the underlying power supply problem is not resolved. If PF appeared due to a temporary power outage and your supply has been restored, a simple reset should clear it permanently. If the cause is a tripped breaker, blown fuse, or loose wiring, those issues must be corrected first or the code will reappear.
Is the PF error code on a Kenmore dryer a safety concern?
PF itself indicates the dryer has stopped due to a power issue, which is a protective response. However, if the code was triggered by a loose or arcing terminal block connection, there is a potential fire and shock hazard that should be addressed promptly. Always unplug the dryer or shut off the breaker before inspecting any wiring or the terminal block. If you see burn marks, melted insulation, or smell something burning near the power connections, do not operate the dryer until the damage is repaired.
How much does it cost to fix a PF error code on a Kenmore dryer?
If the cause is simply a tripped breaker or a power outage, there is no repair cost. A replacement power cord typically costs in the range of $15 to $40 depending on the cord type and amperage rating. If the terminal block has been damaged by arcing or heat, replacement parts generally run $10 to $30, though labor costs from a technician would add to that total. If the issue is with the home's electrical panel or wiring, an electrician's service call is typically in the range of $75 to $200 or more depending on the work required.

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